Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Those are the categories, which means that this is not entirely open-ended. To qualify for regional aid, it is necessary to demonstrate that a new investment represents a new economic activity by a company and involves a new process or innovation. Companies must show that they are modernising their production and developing new products or ways of doing things. There must be a step-up in technology or diversification. That is the test. It is a very broad mandate compared to the suggestion there be no aid for large companies. If a company is simply replicating the same technology, that is restricted for companies which already employ 250 staff. There is broad scope. Having discussed matters with IDA Ireland, we are satisfied that the measures cover the typical expansion. There is always an upgrade in research and development and the value chain is always being climbed to bring in new technologies. This is a broad, workable mandate.

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